Greg Brooks Jr., a former safety and newly appointed team captain for the Louisiana State University (LSU) Tigers football team, is at the center of a legal controversy following a health crisis that began in August 2023. Brooks Jr. experienced troubling symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, and headaches during football practice. Despite his consistent reports of these symptoms, it took 39 days before he was referred to a neurologist, who ultimately diagnosed him with a brain tumor.
The delay in diagnosis has led to a lawsuit filed by Brooks Jr.'s family against LSU and the surgeon who performed his subsequent surgery. Despite complaints of severe symptoms, an LSU athletic trainer initially dismissed his condition as vertigo and cleared him to return to practice. It wasn't until September 2023 that a neurologist identified the brain tumor, prompting urgent medical intervention.
The surgery to remove the tumor had devastating consequences for Brooks Jr. During the operation, he suffered "multiple strokes," which resulted in "severe and permanent injuries." Post-surgery, he underwent chemotherapy and radiation, followed by daily speech and occupational therapies as he relearned basic skills such as eating, writing, and speaking.
"I just want young athletes in the same spot I was, if something is hurting, tell them," Brooks Jr. said in an interview with "Good Morning America" co-anchor Michael Strahan. "And if they don't do anything about it, go get your second opinion. Because if I would have known that, I wouldn't be the way I am right now."
The lawsuit claims that the surgeon who performed the brain surgery was not adequately qualified for the procedure. Despite these challenges, Brooks Jr. has been declared cancer-free by his doctors, yet the aftermath of his surgery continues to impact his life significantly.
"Whatever card I'm dealt, that's the card I'll play, and I'm gonna make sure I win." – Brooks Jr.
Brooks Jr.'s father, Greg Brooks Sr., has expressed deep concerns over the handling of his son's case by LSU's coaching staff and medical team. He highlighted the lack of communication from LSU since October 2023, shortly after his son's diagnosis.
"Forget about football. Pick up the phone and say you love the kid, man." – Brooks Sr.
The family further alleges that the quality of medical care provided was subpar, particularly criticizing the decision-making process that led to Brooks Jr.'s delayed diagnosis and subsequent surgical complications.
"The disease is not the issue," Brooks Sr. said of his son's cancer diagnosis. "He did wonderful with his radiation, with his chemo. This is the aftermath of injury from surgery."
The hospital involved, Our Lady of the Lake, issued a statement emphasizing their commitment to patient care and supporting their medical team's expertise.
"First, and foremost, our prayers remain with Greg for his continued healing and recovery." – Hospital statement
"The neurosurgical team at Our Lady of the Lake is among the most experienced in Louisiana and they give our patients the best opportunity for a positive outcome in any circumstance." – Hospital statement
"Providing excellent healthcare to those we serve is our top priority." – Hospital statement
LSU has also responded to the situation by expressing their continued support for Brooks Jr.'s recovery efforts while refraining from commenting on the ongoing litigation.
"While LSU cannot comment on ongoing litigation, Greg Brooks remains in our thoughts and prayers as he continues to work through the rehabilitation process." – LSU statement
"Since the beginning of our agreement with our Championship Health Partner, Our Lady of the Lake, they have provided exceptional medical care for our student-athletes in all of our sports.” – LSU statement
